Understanding Matthew 6:11
Verse: "Give us this day our daily bread."
This verse is part of the Lord's Prayer found in the Gospel of Matthew. It highlights the reliance on God for our daily sustenance and the importance of seeking both spiritual and physical nourishment.
Commentary Insights
Matthew Henry's Commentary
Matthew Henry emphasizes the significance of this request as a humble acknowledgment of our dependence on God. He notes that "daily bread" signifies not only the physical bread necessary for our survival but also the spiritual sustenance that God provides. Henry suggests that the phrase teaches us to seek God's provision daily rather than hoarding resources for the future, reflecting a trust in God's daily care.
Albert Barnes' Commentary
Albert Barnes connects this verse to the broader themes of divine provision and prayer. He states that asking for daily bread symbolizes the daily spiritual and temporal needs of believers. Barnes points out that it serves to remind us of our need for regular fellowship with God and for His continual sustenance in our lives.
Adam Clarke's Commentary
Adam Clarke elaborates on the idea of "daily bread," suggesting that it should be considered in a broader context of needs beyond just the physical. He stresses the importance of spiritual nourishment and how Jesus emphasized that man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from God (referencing Matthew 4:4). Clarke encourages believers to come to God with a sincere heart, recognizing both their spiritual and physical needs.
Thematic Connections
Matthew 6:11 connects deeply with several overarching themes throughout the Bible:
- Dependence on God: This verse illustrates the theme of reliance on God's provision.
- Daily Needs: It calls to mind God's promise to provide for our needs each day.
- Spiritual Nourishment: Highlights the importance of seeking God's Word alongside physical sustenance.
- Prayer and Relationship: Indicates that prayer is essential to our relationship with God.
Cross-References
Understanding Matthew 6:11 can be deepened through various cross-references:
- Exodus 16:4: God provided manna to the Israelites in the wilderness as their daily sustenance.
- Psalm 145:15-16: The Lord opens His hand and satisfies the desire of every living thing.
- Philippians 4:19: God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory.
- Matthew 4:4: Jesus states that man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from God.
- John 6:35: Jesus claims to be the Bread of Life, indicating spiritual hunger and nourishment.
- 1 Timothy 6:8: Paul speaks about having food and clothing, emphasizing the basics of daily needs.
- Proverbs 30:8-9: A prayer for neither poverty nor riches, asking for daily bread alone.
Practical Applications
In applying this verse to daily life, believers are encouraged to:
- Trust God: Develop faith in God's provision for daily needs.
- Practice Gratitude: Acknowledge God's blessings in both spiritual and physical aspects.
- Seek Spiritual Growth: Engage regularly with God’s Word for spiritual nourishment.
- Daily Prayer: Make prayer a daily habit to express dependency on God.
Conclusion
Matthew 6:11 serves as a powerful reminder of our daily reliance on God. By seeking His provision for our daily bread, we affirm our trust in His goodness and care. The verse encourages a holistic understanding of sustenance, embracing both physical and spiritual needs as integral parts of our relationship with Him.
